For over 20 years the Fantasy of Lights Opening Night Parade sponsored by Wells Fargo, brings over 35,000 spectators to downtown Tempe. This beloved community tradition brings a varied lineup of parade units including floats, marching bands, and novelty units. It’s on this day that Mill Avenue’s trees are lit with thousands of lights that remain throughout the holiday season.
The parade launches from Mill Avenue at Rio Salado and heads south on Mill, it then turns right on 7th street through Centerpoint Plaza and heads north on Maple where it concludes. Following the parade, Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital sponsors our annual tree lighting ceremony at Centerpoint plaza. Santa’s lap is then available for requests and photos.